One of the most exciting parts of studying English is when you get the opportunity to take part in a debate. Most students are familiar with the idea of debates – they are formal or informal arguments about a chosen motion (statement). Debates are carried out according to a set of rules, which can be strict or relaxed depending on the context. For example, debates in the Dáil are very closely monitored by the speaker (known as the Ceann Comhairle) of the house. Classroom debates do not have to be so tightly controlled but they should follow some rules, including: l A debate must have a motion for people to agree and disagree on. l There should be a speaker whose job is to apply the rules of the debate, including announcing the motion, making sure the debaters get equal speaking time and applying a running order to the speakers.
l Two teams should debate the motion: the proposers argue in favour, while the opposers argue against.
l Rebuttals (replies) can be part of a debate, but should only happen when all points for and against the motion have been heard.
l The class can vote for a winner, or even select a group of classmates to act as an audience, who can judge the debate.
Debate the following motion in your class: COMMUNICATION ‘
Assessment Book page 30
It is never ok to make fun of things that people really care about, such as language, religion and politics.
MANAGING MYSELF
You can use the debate template in your Assessment Book to help you plan, analyse and reflect on your debate.
LITERACY BEING CREATIVE MANAGING INFORMATION AND THINKING ’ 20
